Rachel Hammermueller

Perth County OPP Insp. Tyler Stewart updated the Perth County OPP board on April 14 on the last two months in crime in the area, noting that there were more intimate partner violence-related assaults in February and March, but violent crime overall is down.

At its April 7 meeting, council here received reports from both bylaw and building departments, with bylaw complaints shifting from a trend of dog-related complaints over the past year – although still present – to the majority being human-centred.

At its April 7 meeting, council here received reports from both bylaw and building departments, with bylaw complaints shifting from a trend of dog-related complaints over the past year – although still present – to the majority being human-centred.

As is routine, Huron East Fire Department shared their monthly activity report with council here at their Apr. 7 meeting. 

The act update expands bring-your-own-alcohol permissions to certain outdoor public events, as CAO/Clerk Trevor Hallam’s accompanying report explains. Council gave examples such as tail-gating at fundraising events specifically at Bluevale Community Centre (CC). 

The 2026 budget was passed by council on April 7, establishing a 4.88 per cent municipal tax rate increase for residents of Morris-Turnberry; for the average, single-family home, estimated taxes are $3,885.15, an increase of $140.25 from 2025.  

“Research has shown that Canadian employers lose more than $77 million every year due to the impacts of Intimate Partner Violence.” 

Council here authorized selling a portion of Augusta Street in Lowertown at the end of their meeting March 17. 

Council carried a motion approving the year-end balance of a surplus of $142,432.66, to be transferred to the municipality’s General Reserve.

OMAP is a crime suppression strategy designed to deter repeat offenders, holding them accountable to release conditions, Vincent told the board that day.

Council here accepted two tenders for road work during council’s March 3 regular council meeting; one for hot mix paving and one for maintenance gravel. 

Although there appears to be slight differences to how Huron and Perth Counties are responding to youth experiencing homelessness locally, both are falling short in adequately supporting those in navigating the exit system and preventing those from falling back in, according to recent research.

Among decisions made by council that evening were forgoing a municipal dog counter staff position, setting a pledge to Belgrave for playground equipment, reducing the municipality’s contributions to the fire reserve and setting a number for money for future asset management.